Variation in the pith parameter of Gmelina arborea trees from fast growth plantations in Costa Rica

The pith represents the central part of the cross-section of a tree trunk and it is composed of primary parenchyma tissue. And its eccentricity is associated with the presence of reaction wood, which affects trunk straightness, and diminishes the quality of the logs and products. Gmelina arborea trees (8 to 14 years old) from fast growth plantations in Costa Rica were sampled with the purpose of determining diameter, eccentricity and pith percentage as well as pith distance from the real centre of the cross section. These pith parameters were also evaluated in relation to management intensity (intensive, moderate and unmanaged), climate (dry and wet tropical) and tree height. Pith diameter varies from 0.15 to 1.10 cm and is located at 6 cm, at its maximum, around the real centre of the cross section. Percentage eccentricity might reach values of up to 26.5% and this parenchyma tissue represents between 1 and 5% of the total tree diameter. The level of management had a significant effect on the eccentricity and percentage of the pith, while the climate significantly affected the pith percentage and the distance of pith from the real centre of the cross section. Tree height affected significantly all the parameters evaluated.